Boekenhoutskloof Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Boekenhoutskloof Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon, Franschhoek Valley, South Africa, 2019   

Grapes: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc matured in French oak. 

A brooding nose entices with its abundance of black- and blueberry aromas and hints of cigar box and tobacco spiciness. The palate is exceptionally full and round, yet precise with the crème de cassis, black currant and Cedar wood of the nose following through with notes of pencil shavings, red capsicum, tealeaf and subtle cloves. Grainy tannins and a perfect acidity balance the dark berry fruit on a rich mid-palate, suggesting significant ageing potential. The finish is smooth and complex with its offering of red liquorice, fennel bulb and exotic spice and an impressive length. 

"The Franshhoek Cabernet Sauvignon contains 5% Cabernet Franc and come from four sites in the valley. Picked a week before Stellenbosch bottling, its fresher, gentler and lighter in style , with floral notes, chocolatey oak, granular tannins and a spicy, herbal, lifted finish. Drink 2023-2031

Rated 95/100 points, Tim Atkin MW, 2021 South Africa Report

"The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Franschhoek is well defined on the nose, presenting blackberry, wild hedgerow and hints of black truffle intermingling with bell pepper aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with edgy tannins and fine acidity, quite austere toward the finish at the moment, yet fresh and simply needing bottle age. There is something almost Cabernet Franc about this blend, even though that variety comprises just 5% of the total. Still, this feels accomplished Drink 2023-2040"

Rated 92+ points, Neal Martin, Vinous Media